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A harrowing experience at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru highlights the vulnerability of passengers, particularly women, to exploitation by fake ride-hailing services. Nikita Malik, a passenger at the airport, narrowly escaped a potential assault after boarding a fake Ola cab. Her encounter underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures at airports and vigilance among travelers.
The incident unfolded when Malik booked an Ola cab from the airport's designated pickup area. A driver, who was not assigned to her through the app, approached her, claiming to be her ride. Despite her initial hesitation, she boarded the car, only to realize the driver was an imposter when he requested her destination directly in his personal Maps app, claiming a malfunction in his official Ola app. The driver's request for an extra fare, followed by his suggestion to transfer her to another vehicle, further raised red flags, prompting Malik to sense danger. She insisted on returning to the airport, but the driver ignored her request and instead made an unscheduled stop at a petrol station, demanding an extra payment for fuel.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Malik discreetly contacted the emergency helpline 112, keeping a family member informed of her location. Within 20 minutes, police arrived at the airport pickup stand and apprehended the impersonator, identified as Basavaraj. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals who exploit ride-hailing services for nefarious purposes. It underscores the need for robust security measures at airports and for passengers to be vigilant in verifying the legitimacy of their rides. Travelers should prioritize using official ride-hailing apps, verifying the driver's identity through the app, and being wary of any deviations from the expected route or requests for additional payments. Moreover, it emphasizes the crucial role of the authorities in combating the presence of fraudulent drivers at airports and other public spaces, protecting travelers from potentially life-threatening situations.
The incident underscores the growing concerns about the safety of women using ride-hailing services, especially at night. It underscores the need for improved security measures and for ride-hailing companies to implement rigorous verification processes for their drivers. The authorities and ride-hailing companies must work together to address these vulnerabilities, ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers.
Source: Woman shares harrowing experience after boarding fake Ola cab at Bengaluru airport